Volkswagen Touareg

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Model Overview

The Volkswagen Touareg is a midsize two-row SUV that competes with more expensive luxury models. From its strong engines, high-quality interior, solid build structure, and off-road prowess, the Touareg has made a name for itself in the luxury SUV segment for those willing to look beyond the non-premium Volkswagen badge.

History

First introduced for the 2004 model year, the Volkswagen Touareg was priced lower than its esteemed German competitors. The Volkswagen shared its basic structure with the Porsche Cayenne and later, the Audi Q7. We were so impressed with the Touareg that it became the 2004 Motor Trend SUV of the Year. In the end, we summed it up: “The Touareg is a dazzling new SUV, a versatile and competent player that’ll met or exceed the expectations of soft roaders and hard-core SUV truckers alike.”

In 2008 the Volkswagen Touareg received a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling and new options packages. When we reviewed it, the Touareg still impressed us, but it was pricier than we expected. In addition, the heavy curb weight hampererd fuel economy and the back seat was still tighter versus the competition.

For the 2011 model year, Volkswagen released a second-generation model that was lighter, more fuel efficient, and had a new lineup of engines that included a hybrid powertrain, a first for the Touraeg. In our First Drive review, we really liked the new lighter and more efficient Touareg, especially the new hybrid powertrain that made it the quickest of all the engine choices while still being able to tow as much as the gasoline and diesel counterparts.

“Acceleration is impressive for a vehicle this size,” we said about the hybrid model, “and it carries itself well thanks to double-wishbone independent suspension.” In 2015, we saw a mid-cycle refresh of the Touareg.

The Latest Generation

Now that the hybrid model has been discontinued and the diesel isn’t sold anymore as a result of Volkswagen’s diesel-emissions issues, the Touareg is only offered with a gas-powered V-6. With the Touareg focused on premium-minded buyers, Volkswagen is preparing a larger SUV that may undercut it in price, to compete with three-row crossovers such as the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, and Honda Pilot.

Why You’d Consider One

For a consumer who wants a midsize, two-row premium SUV but without the large premium price, the Volkswagen Touareg should be on your list. Known for its high-quality interior, good visibility, and impressive towing capability, this SUV sticks to a solid formula that will work for a select type of buyer.

Why You’d Look Elsewhere

The Touareg’s fuel economy could be better, and since Volkswagen axed the hybrid and stopped selling its diesel engines in the U.S., there is now only one V-6 engine choice. In a 2013/2014 Diesel Luxury SUV Comparison, the Touareg finished last behind the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mercedes-Benz ML350, and the Porsche Cayenne.